Mantra on Northbourne

Hotel Description

You know, I rolled into Canberra last spring, right around Floriade time when the city’s all buzzing with flower displays and tourists snapping pics by Lake Burley Griffin, and I ended up crashing at the Mantra on Northbourne. It’s smack on Northbourne Avenue – that main drag heading north from Civic, you know, the one that gets a bit hectic with trams rattling by and folks commuting to the uni or parliament house. Honestly, pulling up to 84 Northbourne Ave felt like a relief after dodging the afternoon traffic; the building’s got this no-nonsense, modern-ish vibe – not flashy, but solid, like a reliable mate who’s seen a few seasons. Check-in was a breeze, even though I arrived smack in the middle of rush hour – the staff were chatty Aussies, quick with a smile and a tip on where to grab a decent flat white nearby (there’s a little cafe just down on Mort Street that’s gold for breakfast). Oh, and parking? They have an underground spot, which is a godsend because street parking around there is a nightmare, especially if you’re lugging bags from the airport shuttle.

Stepping into the room – I had one of those one-bedroom apartments, actually – it was spacious enough to spread out, with a little kitchenette that came in handy for whipping up snacks after a day wandering the National Gallery (it’s only a 10-minute drive or a brisk walk if you’re feeling energetic). The bed was comfy, firm mattress with those crisp white sheets that smell faintly of fresh laundry, but I mean, the decor’s a tad dated, like early 2000s chic that’s holding on – nothing offensive, just not the sleek Instagram-ready stuff you see in newer spots. Noise-wise, you can hear the hum of Northbourne traffic if your window faces the avenue, especially in the mornings when everyone’s heading to work, but it quiets down by evening, and the air-con drowns it out nicely. I appreciated the pool downstairs for a quick dip – it’s indoor, heated, perfect for those cooler Canberra nights – and the gym’s basic but functional, with free weights and a treadmill that didn’t feel like it was about to give up on you. Breakfast buffet in the restaurant was solid too; nothing gourmet, but fresh eggs, bacon, and those little yogurts that hit the spot, plus it’s right there so you don’t have to venture out if you’re jet-lagged.

All in all, if you’re hitting Canberra for a mix of business and sightseeing – say, checking out the War Memorial or catching a show at the Canberra Theatre, both just a stone’s throw away – this place is a smart pick without breaking the bank. It’s got that 4-star reliability with a 7.5 rating that feels about right: good value, convenient for getting around (hop on the light rail to zip to Braddon for trendy eats), but don’t expect luxury bells and whistles. I’d go back, especially in quieter months like winter when the city’s more laid-back – well, as laid-back as a capital gets. Just pack earplugs if you’re a light sleeper, and you’ll be set.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $117. Standard Room for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $138. One-Bedroom for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $151. One-Bedroom Apartment with View for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $243. Two-Bedroom Apartment for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $276. Two-Bedroom Apartment with View for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Great accommodation that is in a good condition and excellent location four weekend visit.location – Michele from Australia – 28 June 2025 (8/10)

  Good quality and clean accommodation which met our expectations. It is well located to the busy food district of Braddon and a 10 minute walk to the CBD.
  
  What could be improved: Slightly dated furniture

• Happy guest. – Karen from Australia – 9 June 2025 (9/10)

  Big bed which was very comfortable. Quiet, slept well. The aircon worked well. Breakfast was good, the eggs and bircher musli were stand outs.
  
  What could be improved: Hand sanitiser would have been good at the breakfast buffet, esp given how many guests were coughing and we were sharing serving spoons.

• Very good – Phillip from Australia – 8 June 2025 (8/10)

  Room was a good size and enjoyed the extra space. Bed was comfortable. Staff were welcoming and parking was fine.
  
  What could be improved: Just a little dated but would definitely stay here again.

• Easy to access and good location for restaurants. – Delise from Australia – 10 May 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent location.

• Very good – Liza from Australia – 6 May 2025 (8/10)

  Large room.
  
  What could be improved: Fan did not work in the bathroom. Lighting in hallway very dim making the place look tied.

• would come back and stay. Great accommodation, service & location – Sarah from Australia – 28 April 2025 (9/10)

  Exceptional Service and made it very special with you extra touch for my daughters birthday
  
  What could be improved: nil

• Very enjoyable – Warren from Australia – 27 April 2025 (9/10)

  It accommodated us as a family perfectly
  
  What could be improved: NA

• Very relaxing stay that was perfect for a place to sleep after a busy day exploring the city. – Nicolestoj from Australia – 21 April 2025 (8/10)

  The hotel staff were lovely, the bed comfortable and the water hot. I really liked that I could easily link my streaming services to the room TV to watch on the bigger screen.
  
  What could be improved: The building itself was a little tired, paint chipping off the walls, bathroom amenities dated. None of this matters when you are just looking for a place to sleep at night.

• Ok but quite expensive – Diana from New Zealand – 31 March 2025 (7/10)

  Noisy neighbours

• Can’t wait to be back – Jan-sari from Australia – 23 March 2025 (8/10)

  Everything
  
  What could be improved: No charging ports near the bed but quick charge near the TV, shower leaked on last day too.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities